2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 160 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
